Thursday evening we were resting comfortably after spending another full day at our facility working with the wildies when a phone call came in from our veterinarian, Bruce. He informed us that he had to assist our one pregnant mare, Princess, in delivering her foal. He just happened to be at the site in regards to another matter, and checked on the horses before he was going to leave. This is when he noticed that Princess was in some distress trying to give birth. One of the legs of the foal was further out than the other one and as it turned out the foal’s one shoulder was locked inside the mare. Using his expertise he was able to enter the pen and pull the foal. Princess’s natural instincts then took over as she began to clean her foal.
Upon hearing this we headed to the site to check on everyone’s welfare. The little foal was standing and trying its best to move about on its little wobbly legs.
We then worried about whether the foal would be able to nurse. We were thrilled when we heard the loud slurping sound coming from the little one. When we put the flashlight on it, we chuckled as it was sucking at mom’s leg. However, in a short period of time, the foal found the right spot and got her very important first drink.
With little sleep we were out first thing in the morning and found our little filly extremely healthy and her mom was looking very good as well.
In the adjacent pen, we have our three young colts who are very interested in their new “cousin.” Princess however did not like their attention to her little girl.
Prior to last night we had spent considerable time working with Princess to gentle her to the human touch. This obviously paid off as she allowed Bruce to help her. Also that when we enter the pen she is calm and not stressed by our presence.
As the day wore on the little filly slept, ate, pooped and gained strength.
By the end of the day when we left our little “Angel” was running around the pen and tormenting the boys next door!
It is truly amazing that Bruce happened to be there at that particular time and moment when Princess needed help. Nothing happens in this world without a reason.
Now we wait with much anticipation for the arrival of Queenie’s baby which should be very soon. We have also been working with her to assure that everything, no matter what, goes smoothly.
Bob